The team also had just three assists and wasn't getting its preferred balance of shots in the paint and from three-point range. But after the Badgers gathered themselves, everything was alright.

Wisconsin basketball improved to 13-3 on the season and 3-2 in Big Ten play with a decisive 80-59 win over Minnesota on Friday. The win continues the team’s strong momentum to start the calendar year.

MADISON, WISCONSIN – JANUARY 10: Dawson Garcia #3 of the Minnesota Golden Gophers goes up for a shot against Xavier Amos #13 of the Wisconsin Badgers during the first half of the game at Kohl Center on January 10, 2025 in Madison, Wisconsin. (Photo by John Fisher/Getty Images)

On a night when Max Klesmit’s streak of 67 consecutive starts for the Badgers came to an end due to an ankle injury, the Wisconsin men's basketball team turned to another in-state product to help fill his spot in the lineup.

Steven Crowl tied his season high with 18 points and the Badgers rolled in a game they couldn't afford to lose.

Wisconsin basketball earned an impressive 80-59 win over the Minnesota Golden Gophers on Friday night at the Kohl Center.

Minnesota and Wisconsin meet! Our College Basketball odds series has our Minnesota-Wisconsin prediction, odds, and pick.